MIAMI, FL — April 20, 2009 — Energy Smart Florida, a joint effort among GE, Florida Power & Light, Cisco Systems and Silver Spring Networks, has the potential to be the most extensive, holistic smart grid city implementation in the US with “smart” energy infrastructure reaching every resident – and uniting consumers, businesses, utilities and government around a common energy vision.

Energy Smart Florida, a groundbreaking energy efficiency initiative, is spurring a $200 million investment in smart grid technology and renewable energy over the next two years.

A model electricity system for American cities and the cornerstone of a broader $800 million statewide investment, this groundbreaking energy efficiency initiative is using federal economic stimulus funds to help spur a $200 million investment in smart grid technology and renewable energy over the next two years, including:

Smart Grid Automation and Communications – More like the Internet than an electric network, the new system will connect smart meters, high-efficiency transformers, digitized substations, power generation and other equipment through a centralized information and control system.

Smart Meters – An estimated 4.5 million smart meters will be installed on homes and businesses by 2014.

Renewable Energy Integration – Several local universities and schools will receive solar power installations to help meet energy needs with renewable, non-polluting technologies.

"GE is committed to delivering energy-efficient technologies to ensure a more sustainable energy future. Energy Smart Miami will be an outstanding example of 21st century technology enabling our vision of a more diverse energy portfolio supported by a dynamic, flexible and smarter energy grid … this is a great example for cities across America -- and the world,” said GE’s Jeff Immelt.